ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for ureter narrowing
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Narrowing › ureter”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding ureter narrowing
The ICD-10-CM code for ureter narrowing is N13.5 (Crossing vessel and stricture of ureter without hydronephrosis). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on N13.5.
Within N13, choose N13.5 (Crossing vessel and stricture of ureter without hydronephrosis) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: hydronephrosis with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (N13.0), hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture, not elsewhere classified (N13.1), hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction (N13.2), other and unspecified hydronephrosis (N13.3), hydroureter (N13.4), Pyonephrosis (N13.6), Vesicoureteral-reflux (N13.7), other obstructive and reflux uropathy (N13.8) and 1 more.
Don't report N13.5 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: Crossing vessel and stricture of ureter without hydronephrosis with infection (N13.6).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
More specific ureter narrowing codes (official index)
- with infection N13.6 — Pyonephrosis
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for N13.5)
- Crossing vessel and stricture of ureter without hydronephrosis with infection (N13.6)
Common questions about ureter narrowing ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for ureter narrowing?
- N13.5 — Crossing vessel and stricture of ureter without hydronephrosis. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: N13.6.
Is N13.5 billable?
- Yes. N13.5 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can N13.5 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict N13.5 as a principal diagnosis.
Is N13.5 a CC or MCC?
- No. N13.5 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.